Winds picked up across Southern California, sparking at least a couple of new wildfires as firefighters continued to battle extreme fire conditions. This comes two weeks after two major blazes started in the Los Angeles area and are still burning.
Gusty winds were expected to hit speeds of up to 70 mph (113 kph) along the coast and 100 mph (160 kph) in the mountains and foothills, creating dangerous fire conditions that could last through Tuesday morning. Overnight, wind speeds ranged from 35 mph (56 kph) along the coast to 63 mph (101 kph) in the mountains, according to the National Weather Service.
In San Diego County, at least two small fires broke out. Evacuations were ordered for the Lilac Fire, which had already burned around 50 acres (20 hectares) and was growing quickly, threatening nearby structures. Fortunately, firefighters had made progress on the Pala Fire, which was reported to be contained.
Los Angeles fire crews quickly contained a small brush fire that ignited south of the Griffith Observatory, with one suspect taken into custody. Another fire along the 405 freeway in Granada Hills temporarily shut down the northbound lanes before firefighters were able to bring it under control. In Poway, San Diego County, a blaze sparked Monday afternoon but was quickly contained.
Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband Doug Emhoff, after attending President Trump’s inauguration, flew to Los Angeles to meet with firefighters, volunteers, and victims of the Eaton Fire in Altadena. “We just came out to thank (the firefighters), thank the community, and remind folks that we’re all in this together,” Harris said. She also shared that their home in Pacific Palisades had been spared.
President Trump, who had criticized wildfire response during his inaugural address, is expected to visit Los Angeles on Friday. Meanwhile, Gov. Gavin Newsom emphasized the importance of a strong state and federal partnership in addressing the aftermath of the fires. “I look forward to President Trump’s visit to Los Angeles and his mobilization of the full weight of the federal government to help our fellow Americans recover and rebuild,” Newsom said.
Rain is expected in the Los Angeles area this weekend, but more gusty winds are forecast to return on Thursday. Authorities are urging residents to avoid mowing their lawns, as sparks from the lawnmowers could ignite fires. They’re also reminding everyone to check their evacuation plans, have emergency kits ready, and report any new fires as soon as they spot them.
